How to Book

To request a place for the upcoming Holiday Club, please email:
info@charthamhk.co.uk

Once we receive your email, we will send you an application form to complete.
Your child's place will be confirmed once the form has been returned and availability has been checked.
Limited places are available to maintain a calm and nurturing environment.

How to Book

To request a place for the upcoming Holiday Club, please email:
info@charthamhk.co.uk

Once we receive your email, we will send you an application form to complete.
Your child's place will be confirmed once the form has been returned and availability has been checked.
Limited places are available to maintain a calm and nurturing environment.

Sustainability Lead: Milly Woodrow (Founder and Director)

Effective Date: August 2025


1. Introduction
At Chartham Holistic Kindergarten, we understand our responsibility to the Earth and the importance of cultivating environmental consciousness from the earliest stages of life. Rooted in a slow-paced, nature-connected approach, our climate action plan aims to foster deep, lived experiences of sustainability that are embedded naturally into our rhythms and routines—not added on artificially.

2. Sustainability Lead Role
As the nominated Sustainability Lead, Milly Woodrow will:
Integrate sustainable practices into everyday operations and pedagogy.
Guide staff and children in deepening their relationship with the natural world.
Ensure that all sustainability efforts align with the holistic ethos of the kindergarten.

3. Environmental Learning in Daily Life
We believe the most meaningful sustainability education is experiential and woven into daily life. We will:
Encourage children to care for the natural environment through seasonal gardening, composting, and nature walks.
Support nature-based play using organic, recycled, and found materials.
Explore the cycles of the seasons, weather, and local ecosystems through storytelling, art, and sensory exploration.
Promote reverence for all living things and instil habits of care, gratitude, and responsibility.

4. Sustainable Practices in the Setting
We will continue to align our operational choices with our ethical and ecological values:
Natural Materials: Use biodegradable, non-toxic, and ethically sourced materials wherever possible—for play, art, cleaning, and care.
Minimal Waste: Avoid single-use plastics and prioritise reusable or compostable items.
Composting & Recycling: Maintain simple systems to minimise waste and involve children in these processes.
Energy Use: Conserve energy through mindful use of heating and lighting. We are committed to low-impact living and outdoor-led activity.
Food Practices: Support seasonal, vegetarian snacks and meals using organic or locally sourced ingredients when possible.

5. Outdoor and Nature-Based Learning
Our outdoor spaces are an extension of our classrooms and a cornerstone of our climate approach:
Children regularly participate in caring for garden beds, trees, and wildlife-friendly spaces.
Encourage observation of natural changes—clouds, soil, insects, birds—as a way to foster awareness of interconnectedness.
Create spaces that welcome biodiversity: log piles, wildflower corners, and natural play features.

6. Community and Culture
While we do not run formal sustainability workshops, our community is united by shared values of care, simplicity, and nature reverence. We will:
Invite families to contribute gently used materials or natural items for creative use.
Encourage open conversations with families about the ways we honour nature in the setting, modelling sustainability through example rather than instruction.
Maintain our screen-free policy as a commitment to deeper presence and environmental simplicity.

7. Travel and Localism
Promote walking, cycling, or car-sharing among staff and families where feasible.
Source local and ethical goods to reduce transport-related emissions.
Keep supply chains simple and thoughtful, in line with our low-impact philosophy.

8. Review and Reflection
While we do not conduct formal sustainability audits, our commitment to climate action is expressed through lived daily choices. Reflection and adaptation happen organically through:
Regular staff dialogue and peer-sharing.
Observing the children’s responses to the natural world and building on these experiences.
Trusting our shared commitment to simplicity, responsibility, and Earth care as guiding principles.

Conclusion
At Chartham Holistic Kindergarten, sustainability is not a checklist—it is a way of being. Our climate action plan reflects a commitment to nature that is quiet, consistent, and deeply embedded in the child-centred, holistic rhythms of our setting. We hope to nurture a generation that honours the Earth not because they were told to—but because they remember loving her from the start.

At Chartham Holistic Kindergarten, the safety and well-being of children, staff, and visitors is our highest priority. This policy outlines the procedures to follow in the event of a lockdown to protect everyone on the premises from potential threats.

1. Purpose of the Lockdown Policy
A lockdown may be initiated when there is an immediate threat to the safety of the children, staff, or visitors on-site. This could include:
An unauthorised person attempting to enter the premises.
Violent or threatening behaviour near the nursery.
A localised security incident, such as a robbery or police activity.
Environmental hazards (e.g., a chemical spill or dangerous animals in the area).

2. Types of Lockdown
There are two types of lockdown:
Partial Lockdown: Used when there is no immediate threat to the building but precautions are necessary. Access to and from the nursery is restricted, and all external doors are locked.
Full Lockdown: Used when there is an immediate threat. Everyone remains inside locked rooms with heightened security measures.

3. Lockdown Procedure
Initiating a Lockdown
The lockdown will be initiated by the manager or senior staff member upon identifying a threat or being instructed by emergency services.
A clear, calm announcement will be made, stating, “This is a lockdown. Please follow lockdown procedures.” We use the word campfire when referring to a lockdown in front of and to the children to avoid fear, upset or panic.

Steps for a Partial Lockdown
All external doors and windows will be locked.
Staff will ensure children remain indoors.
Regular activities may continue, but heightened awareness will be maintained.
Staff will monitor the situation and await further instructions.
Steps for a Full Lockdown
Children and staff will move to the nearest safe room (e.g.,Spindlewood, Oak or Maytree)
Doors will be locked, and blinds/curtains will be closed where possible.
Lights will be turned off to minimise visibility from outside.
Children and staff will sit quietly, away from doors and windows.
Mobile phones will be kept close, and emergency services will be contacted if not already informed.

4. Communication During a Lockdown
Internal Communication: Staff will communicate using mobile phones.
Parent Communication:
Parents will be informed via text or email when it is safe to do so.
During a lockdown, parents must not attempt to collect their children or contact the nursery directly to avoid compromising safety.
External Communication: The manager will liaise with emergency services and follow their instructions.

5. Ending a Lockdown
The lockdown will only be lifted when deemed safe by the manager or emergency services.
A clear announcement will be made: “The lockdown is over. It is now safe to resume normal activities.”
Parents will be notified once the situation is resolved and when it is safe to collect their children.

6. Staff Responsibilities
Manager or Senior Staff Member:
Assess the threat and initiate the lockdown.
Communicate with emergency services and follow their advice.
Inform parents when appropriate.
All Staff:
Follow lockdown procedures promptly and calmly.
Keep children safe, calm, and reassured.
Report any concerns or missing individuals immediately.

7. Training and Drills
Lockdown procedures will be reviewed with all staff annually.
Practice drills will be conducted twice a year to ensure familiarity with the process.
Feedback from drills will be used to improve the policy and procedures.

8. Review of the Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually or after any lockdown incident to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.

At Chartham Holistic Kindergarten, the safety of our children, families, and staff is our utmost priority. This policy outlines the circumstances under which we may need to close and the procedures for communicating closures effectively.

1. General Closure Policy
We are committed to maintaining normal operations whenever possible. However, there are situations where closure may be unavoidable. These include, but are not limited to:
Adverse weather conditions (e.g., snow, flooding, or high winds).
Health and safety risks (e.g., heating failure, water supply issues, or structural damage).
Staffing shortages that compromise safe staff-to-child ratios.

2. Snow Closure Policy
Our location on a steep country lane poses unique challenges during snowy weather, which can become treacherous even if surrounding residential areas are less affected. The following guidelines apply during snow or severe icy conditions:
Monitoring Conditions:
Management will closely monitor weather forecasts and road conditions using reliable sources (e.g., Met Office updates).
Decision-Making Process:
A decision to close will be based on:
The safety of accessing the nursery by car or on foot.
The ability of staff to reach the nursery safely.
Local conditions specific to our steep country lane.
Timing of Closure Announcements:
If closure is required, we will aim to notify families and staff by 6:30 AM.
Updates will be communicated through:
Email
Text messages
Social media platforms (if applicable)
Midday Closure:
If worsening conditions develop during the day, parents will be contacted promptly to collect their children.

3. Communication
In all closure situations, we are committed to keeping families informed in a timely and transparent manner. The following steps will be taken:
Primary Notification: Parents will receive an email and text message outlining the closure details.
Secondary Notification: Updates will be shared on our website and social media pages, if applicable.
Reopening Announcements: The same channels will be used to confirm when the kindergarten will reopen.

4. Fees During Closure
No refunds are issued for closures due to adverse weather, public holidays, or other unforeseen circumstances.
5. Staff Responsibilities
Staff should make every effort to attend work during adverse weather if it is safe to do so. In cases where travel is unsafe, staff must notify management as soon as possible.

6. Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incidents to ensure it remains effective and aligned with our commitment to safety and wellbeing.

Last updated January 2025

Statement of Intent
As Kindergarten Founder of Chartham Holistic Kindergarten, I am committed to creating a safe working environment to ensure the health, safety & welfare of all students, staff and visitors.
In fulfilling this commitment, I will seek through competence, co-operation and coordination with staff and visitors to provide and maintain a safe and healthy working environment by meeting legislative standards and developing acceptable working practices that will
Ensure staff and pupils are safeguarded when on Kindergarten premises, or engaged in off-site activities (e.g., kindergarten trips, sports events etc.).
Ensure the premises for which they are responsible have safe access and egress for all staff, pupils and visitors.
Provide adequate facilities and arrangements for welfare.
Ensure COSHH (control of substances hazardous to health) safe systems are in place for all stakeholders safety.
Use an external health and safety consultant for health and safety audit and advice to improve H&S at Chartham Holistic Kindergarten
Ensures effective implementation of recommendations.
Ensure that statutory H&S training is delivered for all staff.
Ensures that the Kindergarten is compliant with all statutory fire safety regulations.
Ensure safe use, handling, storage and transport of articles.
Reduces injuries at the Kindergarten by developing and reviewing safe working practices and training of employees.
Ensure risk assessments are in place and record significant findings, and review annually or sooner if there is a change in circumstance.
The organisation and arrangements for achieving the above are set out and detailed within our Health and Safety Policy and risk assessments.


Milly Woodrow
Kindergarten Founder

Issue: 10 May 2026 Revision: 2 Document Reference: Pol.CHK/1224
Review Details


Objectives
The following objectives will be met prior to the next annual review of our health and safety policy:
We shall:
We shall ensure that the relevant sections of the revised health and safety policy are brought to the attention of the employees, and necessary training derived is undertaken to enable people to fulfil their roles.
Implement a formal site inspection regime and determine areas of weaknesses in site performance through evaluation of key performance indicators.
Undertake continuous communications with our employees, welcoming feedback to make continuous improvements within the kindergarten.
Scope of Organisation
Chartham Holistic Kindergarten specialise in providing day care for pupils 0-6 years old. We can provide for 42 pupils.
Organisational Responsibilities
Note these are general responsibilities. Other specific responsibilities are identified within the arrangements sections and related clause numbers as identified. Please note that from time to time the some positions identified below are likely to act in dual roles.
Employer Responsibilities
Chartham Holistic Kindergarten as the employer has a statutory duty in respect of health and safety in community to ensure that premises and people are healthy and safe.
The responsibility is devolved to the Kindergarten Founder, who has day to day responsibility for staff, pupils and others as ‘officer in charge’ of the premises.
The Kindergarten Founder will ensure the overall implementation of this policy.
Kindergarten Founder Responsibilities
To ensure this policy is reviewed annually or earlier if there are any changes in circumstances.
To ensure that employee responsibilities regarding health and safety are included in their job descriptions and that it is adequately received and understood.
To include health and safety issues in the kindergarten improvement plan, if necessary.
To carry out regular health and safety inspections (at least three times a year) and take remedial action as appropriate.
To ensure risk assessments are in place and record significant findings, and review annually or sooner if there is a change in circumstance.
To receive and deal promptly with raised issues or complaints about unsafe premises, equipment, or work practices.
To liaise with the landlord or the building maintenance consultants and/or with contractors to resolve property maintenance issues.
To ensure that the requirements of any enforcement officer (e.g., HSE Inspector, Environmental Health Officer, Fire Liaison Officer, or Environmental Agency Inspector) are properly addressed.
To ensure that emergency evacuation procedures are in place and tested to ensure validity.
To ensure that adequate first aid provision is available and kept up to date at all times.
To report health and safety issues to the governing body on a regular basis.
To monitor and review all health and safety policies and procedures.
Seek advice from other organisations or professionals, such as the Health and Safety Executive, safety advisers etc. as and when necessary.
Liaising with outside bodies concerned with safety and health e.g. Occupational Health consultants;
Monitoring accidents to identify trends and introduce methods of reducing accidents;
Ensuring that reports on health and safety matters with respect to the kindergarten premises are prepared;
Keeping records of hazards identified on site by staff and the remedial action taken and when;
The provision and maintenance of all 'fire' equipment and for the preparation and review of Fire Risk Assessments;
Ensuring all accidents within the area of responsibility are recorded in line with the kindergarten policy;
Ensuring that all portable electrical equipment is tested on an annual basis;
Ensuring equipment, including personal protection equipment is maintained in a safe condition and that substances hazardous to health are stored in a safe place.
Ensuring that first aid equipment and supplies are correctly maintained and readily available
Ensuring all risk assessments are carried out and effectively shared and understood by stakeholders
To monitor all records e.g asbestos register, fire safety checks and water checks
Nursery Manager Responsibilities
Assisting with inspections and safety audits;
Having a strong oversight of health, safety and first aid matters;
Publicising safety matters;
Ensuring that premises safety inspections are undertaken e.g. weekly, bi-termly, and keeping records of any faults identified (if appropriate);
Employee Responsibilities
To read and fully co-operate with this policy.
Must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions.
Will co-operate with their employer on health and safety matters.
Will not interfere with anything provided to safeguard their health and safety or that of others.
Report practices, equipment or physical conditions that may be hazardous on the Health & Safety maintenance form or urgent health & safety concerns to the Site Manager
Have a duty to report all health and safety concerns to the Business Manager
Subcontractor Responsibilities
Know, understand and implement policy, standards and rules at all company work locations as applicable to personal work tasks.
Set a personal example at all times, particularly by wearing appropriate protective clothing and safety equipment.
Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and for the health and safety of those people who may be affected by their actions.
Report any incidents, accidents or unsafe conditions.
Co-operate with the requirements of this policy.
Work in accordance with any training received.
Specifically fulfil all applicable requirements of the arrangements section.
Arrangements
Information
Advisory literature on health and safety matters will be obtained from various sources such as the HSE and other authority bodies, our external consultants and trade associations, etc. Information shall be disseminated as deemed appropriate throughout the company to the relevant persons by the Kindergarten Founder.
Induction and Training
The Kindergarten Founder shall ensure training needs are evaluated from assessment of employee engagement, development, refresher, post training review, legal and policy requirements that impose duties upon individuals and for continual improvement.
We shall ensure that all of our employees are properly trained and hold the applicable training certifications, including but not limited to, fire safety, work at height, asbestos awareness, first aid and manual handling.
All activities undertaken are via competent and trained operatives. Competency shall be assessed by the Kindergarten Founder.
Induction training shall be undertaken in accordance to the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act, and to the company generally shall be carried out by Kindergarten Founder on the first day of work / new project and regularly refreshed.
We shall implement and maintain a training record matrix sheet to ensure refresher training is carried out when required.
Consultation and Communication
It is the company policy to consult and communicate with employees (and others (e.g. contractors) as may be necessary) through a range of mediums including an open-door policy by management, the induction process, work briefs and tool-box-talks, bulletins, meetings and directly through line management communication chains.
We shall operate a policy where non or poor English speaking labour is employed, they will either speak English as a second language being able to understand simple instructions adequately, or an interpreter will be required at all times. We shall seek the help of language line and make use of leaflets printed in different languages from the HSE where required. We shall ensure that where visually or hearing-impaired persons are employed that adequate communication measures are provided.
We shall ensure changes to policy are brought to the attention of employees through issue of the document.
The Kindergarten Founder shall be responsible for ensuring the above policy is implemented and monitored.
Competent Advice
We subscribe to the services of Sandford Hodges Ltd for external competent advice.
Supervision, Monitoring, Measurement, Review and Audit
Our Nursery Manager and external consultants shall conduct periodic ad-hoc site inspections and record the findings. The Nursery Manager will evaluate all reports, including collated key performance indicators to ensure recommendations are carried out as appropriate.
We shall undertake a programme of annual reviews.
We shall monitor accident statistics, sickness and absence levels.
We shall monitor inspections and audit returns from external sources
Risk Assessment, Safe System of Work and Control Hierarchy
It shall be the company policy to assess all aspects of our undertakings to determine significant risks, of which when determined shall be recorded and communicated to those who may be exposed. Risk assessments shall be reviewed periodically to ensure that they remain suitable and sufficient with any changes being communicated to those affected.
We have developed generic risk assessments that are re-evaluated by our Kindergarten Founder.
The risk assessment process shall be used to identify adequate measures to control that risk and to develop a safe system of work and where necessary emergency procedures that shall be written and follow the company expected hierarchy of:
Avoiding risks
Combating risks at source
Adapting the work to the individual
Adapting to technical progress
Substitution of the dangerous for the less dangerous
Giving collective protective measures priority over individual protection measures
Giving appropriate, instruction, information and training to employees.
In addition, where a specific hierarchy has been determined by regulation, then these shall be followed.
We shall seek specific advice where special risks arise from circumstances of which we are unfamiliar or do not have relevant competencies to properly evaluate or control.
With particular reference to young persons, new and expectant mothers and non-English speaking personnel, it is the company policy to take specific account of the vulnerability of these groups and to make assessment of the potential impact of company undertakings upon them to determine adequate controls.
The Kindergarten Founder shall ensure that this policy is adhered to.
Substances Hazardous to Health
It is our policy to evaluate all activities to determine potential exposure to COSHH related substances and whether hazardous substances can be substituted for substances less hazardous. No substances that fall into this category can be used until an assessment has been made after taking into account the environment in which it is to be used and the potential exposure levels, duration etc. has been considered. Hazard safety data sheets shall be obtained (by the buyer) to assist with the assessment process. We shall also consider affecting issues (from processes and biological) and ensure adequate control measures have been determined, those affected given relevant information, instruction, training and supervision.
The purchase of COSHH related materials must be authorised by the Kindergarten Founder. At present only non-hazardous substances which are not classified under COSHH are permitted for use for cleaning.
All Employees are responsible for monitoring adherence within the workplace.
Subcontractors are expected to adhere to this policy and where hazardous substances are to be used, COSHH Assessments and safety data sheets must be supplied, and exposure adequately controlled, with special attention to non-exposure to children.
Signage
The Kindergarten Founder will conduct an assessment of the safety sign requirements for the premises and ensure suitable signage displayed, where required.
All Employees and Subcontractors shall obey all signage posted.
Plant and Equipment
We do not undertaken maintenance works on site, and this shall be undertaken by subcontractors. However, all work equipment shall be assessed for suitability prior to use and are taken to ensure suitable selection to avoid excessive noise and vibration.
All work equipment, including machinery and small hand tools shall be subject to regular maintenance and inspection as per manufacturers instructions. The Subcontractors are responsible for ensuring all machinery and equipment is fit for purpose and the required certificate of conformity, test / calibration certification, inspection and maintenance records and instructions for use are included and passed onto the end user, who shall inspect prior to use. Machinery and equipment shall be considered for noise, vibration and fume emissions.
Note: Subcontractors undertaking maintenance, repairs or installations should provide their own equipment and tools should be battery-powered. It is our policy not to allow chargers on site and contractors bring in sufficiently charged batteries for their equipment each day, therefore no PAT of site equipment is required. Where 110v equipment is required by subcontractors for use on site PAT shall be conducted every 3 months.
First Aid
The Kindergarten Founder shall assess and determine their specific site needs in this regard and ensure adequately trained personnel and suitably stocked first aid kits are provided for their areas / projects; and that the provision is maintained. This shall be monitored by our Nursery Manager.
First Aid Training
All Kindergarten staff undertake first aid training..
Training includes paediatric First Aid.
All first aiders must have completed a training course and must hold a valid certificate of competence to show this. The Kindergarten will keep a register of all trained first aiders, what training they have received and when this is valid until.
The Kindergarten will arrange for first aiders to retrain before their first aid certificates expire. In cases where a certificate expires, the Kindergarten will arrange for staff to retake the full first aid course before being reinstated as a first aider.
All members of staff will have a current paediatric first aid (PFA) certificate which meets the requirements set out in the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The PFA certificate will be renewed every 3 years.
First Aid Kits
A typical first aid kit will include the following:
A leaflet giving general advice on first aid
20 individually wrapped sterile adhesive dressings (assorted sizes)
2 sterile eye pads
2 individually wrapped triangular bandages (preferably sterile)
6 safety pins
6 medium-sized individually wrapped sterile unmedicated wound dressings
2 large sterile individually wrapped unmedicated wound dressings
3 pairs of disposable gloves
No medication is kept in first aid kits.
First aid kits are stored in:
Maytree
Oak
Spindlewood
These are checked monthly by the Nursery Manager or Kindergarten Founder.
Record Keeping
When a child first starts Kindergarten at Chartham Holistic Kindergarten, the Kindergarten will gather information about that child and record any additional medical information staff need to be aware of. This information is kept in a central record which identifies children with additional medical needs.
When a current child is diagnosed with epilepsy, information will be gathered from their family in consultation with the Leadership Team.
Recording Seizures
If a child has a seizure in Kindergarten a record is made and kept with the child’s Health Care Plan. This information is available to families and professionals as a means of monitoring the type and frequency of seizures or identifying possible patterns. Families are also informed if a child has had a seizure during the Kindergarten day.
Notifying parents
The Kindergarten Founder will inform parents of any accident or injury sustained by a pupil, and any first aid treatment given, on the same day, or as soon as reasonably practicable. Parents will also be informed if emergency services are called.
Reporting to Ofsted and child protection agencies
The Kindergarten Founder will notify Ofsted of any serious accident, illness or injury to, or death of, a pupil while in the Kindergarten’s care. This will happen as soon as is reasonably practicable, and no later than 14 days after the incident.
The Kindergarten Founder will also notify the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) of any serious accident or injury to, or the death of, a pupil while in the Kindergarten’s care.
Monitoring Arrangements
This policy will be reviewed by the Kindergarten Founder every year.
Accident, Incident Reporting and Investigation
All Employees are to report all accidents and near misses to the Kindergarten Founder and where harm is caused to a person these are to be recorded in the accident book and statistics monitored. Statistics shall be monitored by the Kindergarten Founder. Reportable incidents are notified to the HSE (immediately for fatality / specified injuries and within 15 days for over seven-day accidents, dangerous occurrences as advised, and diseases as notified by a medical practitioner) (Kindergarten Founder responsibility). Our Kindergarten Founder shall investigate all over seven-day incidents and fatalities or major incidents; the latter with assistance from our external consultants. The Kindergarten Founder will determine whether to seek external assistance from our competent Health and Safety Advisors, Sandford Hodges, in instances of notifiable disease or dangerous occurrences. Near miss incidents are recorded and evaluated at site meetings and as part of the annual review along with all other statistics. We shall record all over three-day absence injuries.
First Aid and Accident Record Book
An accident form will be completed by the relevant member of staff on the same day or as soon as possible after an incident resulting in an injury. This will be maintained on site and kept secure.
As much detail as possible should be supplied when reporting an accident.
A copy of the accident report form will also be added to the pupil’s educational record.
Records held in the first aid and accident book will be retained by the Kindergarten for a minimum of 3 years, in accordance with regulation 25 of The Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1979, and then securely disposed of.
Notifying Parents
The Kindergarten manager will inform parents of any accident or injury sustained by a pupil, and any first aid treatment given, on the same day, or as soon as reasonably practicable. Parents will also be informed if emergency services are called.
Reporting of Ofsted and Child Protection Agencies
The Kindergarten Founder will notify Ofsted of any serious accident, illness or injury to, or death of, a pupil while in the Kindergarten’s care. This will happen as soon as is reasonably practicable, and no later than 14 days after the incident.
The Kindergarten Founder will also notify LADO of any serious accident or injury to, or the death of, a pupil while in the Kindergarten’s care.
Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness
A fire risk assessment shall be undertaken for our site and is reviewed annually or in light of significant change by the Kindergarten Founder.
Where hot works are to be undertaken these shall be under permit to work only.
The Kindergarten Founder is responsible for ensuring plans are communicated, implemented, and monitored.
The Kindergarten Founder or Nursery Manager shall be responsible for conducting weekly fire checks, documenting such checks and raising any findings to be addressed with the Kindergarten Founder.
Emergency evacuation will be practised termly ( at least three times a year in the day), records will be retained and uploaded to our IT systems.
All of our site shall be deemed as no smoking areas with smoking only permitted off site.
Fire Fighting
Staff should only use fire extinguishers if trained in how to operate them safely. If trained, they should only use the extinguisher if they feel confident to do so and not put themselves or others at undue risk. There should always be a clear escape available. Ensure the alarm is raised before attempting to tackle a fire. All chemicals will be stored in accordance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessment.
Maintenance of Fire Equipment
The Kindergarten Founder will ensure regular maintenance of:
fire extinguishers
fire alarms
fire doors
fire safety signs and identification of escape routes
emergency lighting and other emergency equipment.
Bomb Threats & Suspect Packages
Bomb alerts/ suspect packages will be dealt with in accordance with the Kindergarten’s emergency planning arrangements.
The Kindergarten Founder is responsible for ensuring the bomb alert procedures are undertaken and implemented.
Guidance on bombs/suspicious devices or packages will be circulated to staff annually by the Kindergarten Founder.
Personal / Respiratory Protective Equipment
It is company policy to evaluate hazards and risk and control by means other than PPE / RPE where practicable. The Kindergarten Founder will assess risks and determine where, when and which PPE / RPE is necessary. We shall ensure that employees are trained and made aware of use, maintenance, and limitations of all PPE / RPE provided and supervise as necessary the wearing of when required. Where reliance is made on RPE we shall ensure all operatives are face-fit tested.
We shall provide and replace PPE / RPE as determined necessary free of charge, and only use such equipment with the relevant British Standard / European Norm. We shall retain a register of all PPE issued Kindergarten Founder. We shall retain a stock of standard PPE for immediate issue and replacement as required.
Subcontractors are expected to adhere to this policy.
Where PPE is supplied and required all Employees and Subcontractors must use PPE as instructed and intended. The Kindergarten Founder is to ensure this is monitored and enforced.
Asbestos
Our office premises were built prior to 2000 and as such we shall ensure an Asbestos Maintenance Survey is conducted and an asbestos register held. The Kindergarten Founder shall be responsible for ensuring that this is kept up to date, and the condition of asbestos is monitored and logged within the register. Where the condition is found to be deteriorating, the Kindergarten Founder shall arrange for Licenced Asbestos Contractors to remove or encapsulate any asbestos containing materials in poor condition.
Where we may undertake a refurbishment project or work on the Kindergarten we shall ensure a licenced asbestos contractor conducts a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey, prior to works taking place.
We shall ensure our maintenance operatives are trained in asbestos awareness and seek survey information or evidence of safe reoccupation to areas where asbestos has been removed prior to commencement (Kindergarten Founder).
Legionella
The Kindergarten Founder will arrange for a water hygiene risk assessment to be carried out every two years in line with statutory requirements. Such assessments will identify if there are areas where conditions exist which could support legionella bacteria growth and pose a risk to building occupants, the survey will also list any works required; and include details of future monitoring requirements that the Kindergarten is responsible for. Therefore, all identified remedial works will be incorporated into the Kindergarten’s maintenance programme.
Monitoring of the water system is also a statutory requirement, and the Kindergarten will ensure this is undertaken. This will include taking temperature readings, recording these in the logbook and de-scaling spray outlets as necessary.
The Kindergarten Founder shall be responsible for overseeing legionella management.
Noise and Vibration
See also plant and equipment selection.
It is unlikely we shall be using equipment that generates noise and vibration. However, it is our policy to evaluate noise and determine safe systems of work to isolate noisy activities or where this is not practicable, to determine necessary hearing protection zones and provide adequate PPE and ensure it is worn to reduce to below the exposure action value. The Kindergarten Founder will ensure this policy is adhered to and shall ensure controls monitored.
Vibration levels of equipment shall be assessed, and trigger time determined. It is our policy not to exceed the exposure action level and the Kindergarten Founder is required to determine suitable control measures to ensure this policy is adhered to and ensure controls monitored.
Subcontractors will be required to adhere to this policy.
Services
The following policy will be adopted within the company:
All fixed and temporary electrical appliances will satisfy the relevant IEE Wiring standards and British Standards and shall be accordingly inspected, tested and maintained.
All tools and equipment used shall be rated for use to IP 610 Enclosures - IP rated as "dust tight" and protected “against high-pressure, high-temperature jet sprays, wash-downs or steam-cleaning procedures”.
All work on or near services will be subject to a permit to work system.
All services will be located, identified, and marked as appropriate prior to any other related activity. Where applicable, drawings will be obtained from service providers, but these will not be strictly relied upon for accuracy. This shall include and not be limited to oil heating systems, electric, and water supplies.
Competent, trained persons shall only be permitted to work with services and related equipment.
Emergency plans shall be determined for all work relative to services.
The Kindergarten Founder shall ensure all services are controlled in line with the above at the Kindergarten. The Kindergarten Founder shall ensure planning for the above and shall ensure policy is adhered to by those Subcontractors working on services, with supervision and checks from the Kindergarten Founder.
Working at Height
The company policy is to thoroughly plan all work at height activities and avoid working at height wherever possible. Where this is not practicable, we shall select and provide suitable work equipment following an assessment by the Kindergarten Founder in line with the hierarchy of control measures identified in the Work at Height Regulations.
It shall be our policy to only use ladders following an assessment to determine if alternative equipment can be used and the frequency, duration and activity to be undertaken form ladders.
Where scaffold is required by our contractors, we shall ensure trained scaffolders erect scaffold and work to the current requirements of SG4 for scaffold erection and construct scaffolds to the requirements of TG20 and / or specific design details as provided by a temporary works engineer. We shall not allow access to any scaffolding without proof that it has been inspected within the last 7 days. This shall be the responsibility of the Subcontractor.
We shall ensure that only competent persons are permitted to work at height or manage such works and wherever practicable it shall be company policy not to allow lone working where any work at height activity is necessary and to provide adequate supervision. The Kindergarten Founder shall be required to check and verify the suitability of equipment provided.
Manual Handling
It shall be the company policy to avoid manual handling where practicably possible through use of mechanical lifting aids. Risk assessments shall be undertaken in line with company policy where manual handling operations are necessary with consideration given to the task, the individual, the environment and the load.
Staff will be provided with relevant training and instruction (see risk assessment and training responsibilities) and be expected to work to determined safe working methods.
Mechanical Lifting
We will not undertaken mechanical lifting. Where Subcontractors need to carry out lifting works on site, the Kindergarten Founder shall ensure they engage contractors under a contract lift agreement, whereby they provide all equipment, personnel and planning. We shall ensure that all lifting activities are planned. All lifting equipment shall undergo thorough examination as required under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998.
Subcontractors trained in using lifting equipment shall be responsible for undertaking documented pre user checks.
Confined Spaces
We will not undertaken work in confined spaces. However, we shall assess Subcontractor projects (see risk assessment responsibility) and ensure our Subcontractors are aware of developing their own confined spaces through use of generators in enclosed areas.
Only Employees and Subcontractors trained in trained in confined space works are permitted to undertake works in confined spaces.
All confined space works shall be planned by the Kindergarten Business Manager and they shall ensure emergency rescue plans and RAMS are in place. The Kindergarten Business Manager will control and monitor all works in respect of this issue. All Employees and Subcontractors are required to conform to this policy.
Display Screen Equipment
It is company policy to evaluate and assess the risk from all Display Screen Equipment (DSE) use. As such Employees who use DSE must complete a DSE Assessment and send to the Kindergarten Founder. We shall determine users and offer eye tests, providing a contribution towards standard eye glasses where prescribed. The Kindergarten Founder shall determine users, assessment (and review) and for ensuring users are aware of their entitlement; and to ensure our equipment purchasing policy is adhered to.
Working Time
We recognise the importance of social life, and it is company policy to follow the Working Time Regulations to ensure that excessively long hours are not worked in any given period. We shall ensure adequate rest and break times are provided and that holiday entitlement meets the minimum requirement. The Kindergarten Founder shall have the responsibility for ensuring this requirement is followed, except where workers have specifically opted out.
Alcohol and Drugs
The consumption of alcohol (unless authorised by the Kindergarten Founder) or the use of controlled drugs at work is strictly forbidden. Any person found to be using controlled drugs will be removed for their own safety and that of others and could be subject to disciplinary proceedings. No alcohol or controlled drugs are permitted to be brought onto or consumed at work
The use of prescribed drugs should be notified, bringing instruction sheet, to the Kindergarten Founder so as to ensure job placement is not affected by the use of such drugs (e.g. some antihistamines cause drowsiness, a significant risk if operating machinery).
All Employees and Subcontractors are expected to adhere to this policy.
Health Surveillance
It shall be company policy to control our activities to prevent the need for health surveillance. However, we shall determine any necessary health surveillance requirements through the assessment process and continual monitoring (e.g. through absence records, complaints etc.). This shall be the responsibility of the Kindergarten Founder.
Where health surveillance programmes are required, we shall consult with a medical practitioner or occupational health professional to design such programmes. The decision to consult in such a manner will be made by the Kindergarten Founder.
We shall operate a system whereby all new starters shall either complete a medical questionnaire or be requested to attend a medical.
Contractor Control
We shall select contractors or individual workers from our current database of preferred contractors who have been selected on historical knowledge of performance or undergone a vetting procedure such as a questionnaire or other similar evaluation.
All other contractors or individuals will be subject to competency checks prior to appointment through a variety of methods including questionnaire response evaluation, document evaluation, references and interview and production of valid training certificates. This process shall include all client determined contractor use. The Kindergarten Founder shall be responsible for ensuring this process is adhered to and for the selection of competence check method.
Secondary vetting shall be undertaken through evaluation of site-based documentation or performance as monitored by our the Kindergarten Founder or our external competent Health and Safety advisors, Sandford Hodges.
Where contractors or individuals consistently fail to perform to our expected standards, they will be removed from the preferred contractors list and be subject to re-vetting of competency prior to any further appointment. Removal and re-engagement shall be the decision of the Kindergarten Founder.
Agency workers shall only be engaged from reputable agencies where relevant documented evidence of the person’s competencies has been provided.
Subcontractors shall be monitored and supervised by their trained Supervisors.
Company Vehicles
It shall be the company policy to ensure all vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition at all times. Drivers will be responsible for ensuring they are properly driven and loaded; and for carrying out an inspection prior to use and for reporting defects. We shall only allow our vehicles to be driven by those with the appropriate licence and these shall be checked annually by the Kindergarten Founder.
Information Communication Technology
The Kindergarten Founder will ensure that suitable arrangements are in place for the safe use of information communication technology.
Information communication technology will be installed safely, with due consideration given to ventilation for server rooms and computer suites and to hazards such as asbestos and working at height.
Where laptops are used, safe systems of work including charging and use of trolleys will be devised and implemented.
The KCC guidance on interactive whiteboards will be followed.
Mobile Phones
In line with legislation, the use of hand-held phones while driving on company business is prohibited. They can only be used when safely parked, with the engine switched off, before commencing communication, whether the medium is speech, text or any other form of data transfer. All Employees are expected to comply with this policy.
Hands free mobile conversations are permissible with the correct equipment but should only take place when traffic conditions make it safe to do so. If it is not safe, calls should be ignored or terminated. It is our preferred policy for calls to be taken by the answer phone function and replied to when the driver has reached their destination.
On site use of mobile phones will be restricted to the welfare areas where reasonably practicable. Those operating production equipment are not permitted to use mobile phones while working. Kindergarten Founder and Nursery Manager shall enforce this policy.
Welfare, Housekeeping and Waste
We shall ensure that our welfare provisions meet with the requirement of The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
The Kindergarten will comply with the arrangements of The Education (Kindergarten Premises) Regulations 1999 with regard to Kindergarten facilities such as washrooms for pupils and staff, medical accommodation and indoor temperatures.
The company shall enforce a policy of high standards of housekeeping at all premises, within company vehicles and on our premises. The premises has a cleaning and waste control programme in place, to be maintained by the Kindergarten Founder. Only licenced waste carriers shall be used for waste removal.
The premises shall be assessed for special / hazardous waste and relevant licences obtained and methods of removal determined. This shall be the responsibility of the Kindergarten Founder.
All Employees are required to cooperate and assist the company in compliance with this policy.
Lone Working
It shall be the company policy not to permit lone working; especially where working at height, hot works and confined space activities are required. Should an occasion arise whereby lone working is necessary the duration shall be kept to a minimum and shall not commence until the Kindergarten Founder has undertaken a specific risk assessment.
Security
The premises shall be secured out of hours with fencing and locked gates, as well as the building locked.
Construction Design Management (CDM)
We may undertake the role of Client in accordance with the definition of the CDM Regulations, where maintenance, refurbishment or installation of equipment is required at our premises. We do not undertake the role of Principal Designer.
As a Client we shall:
Ensure other duty holders are appointed as appropriate by select & appointing a competent and resourced Principal Designer and selecting & appointing a competent and resourced Principal Contractor.
Ensure sufficient time and resources are allocated
Make sure relevant information is prepared and provided to other duty holders.
Make sure he Principal Designer and Principal Contractor carry out their duties.
Make sure welfare facilities are provided.
The Kindergarten Founder shall ensure policy is adhered to and all reasonable health and safety planning is undertaken, and information provided.
Pandemics
The kindergarten will follow all Government advice and guidelines with regard to Health Pandemics. We will ensure we have a current and specific risk assessment for our sites and will adhere to the Site Operating Procedures (SOP) based on guidance from Public Health England (PHE).